Where are they now? Jurgen Klopp’s inaugural Liverpool XI and substitutes – an all-new lineup at present
When Jurgen Klopp took over Liverpool in 2015, the club was facing a challenging phase. Although not facing relegation form, they were struggling to fill the void left by the departure of Luis Suarez, the world-class forward. Klopp’s initial days saw Liverpool languishing in the 10th position of the Premier League table.
Fast forward eight years, and the transformation under Klopp has been nothing short of remarkable. Liverpool now boasts an impressive trophy cabinet, including the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and the Champions League.
To highlight the astonishing turnaround, let’s take a look back at the first-ever starting XI fielded by Klopp, along with the substitutes, and trace their current whereabouts.
Goalkeeper – Simon Mignolet: Initially the first-choice goalkeeper, Mignolet’s career at Anfield experienced setbacks due to high-profile errors. Subsequently, Klopp’s faith waned, leading Mignolet to join Club Brugge in 2019, where he remains a stalwart, nearing 200 appearances.
Right-back – Nathaniel Clyne: Clyne enjoyed prominence under Klopp but faced injury woes and competition from Trent Alexander-Arnold. Eventually, he moved to Crystal Palace in 2020, where injuries have limited his appearances.
Center-back – Martin Skrtel: A successful stint at Liverpool was followed by a transfer to Fenerbahce in 2016, then a brief stint at Atlanta. Currently, Skrtel plies his trade at FK Hajskala Ráztočno, playing in an unusual advanced position and even taking free-kicks.
Center-back – Mamadou Sakho: While Sakho had memorable moments, he left Liverpool for Crystal Palace in 2017 and later moved to Montpellier in 2021, where he continues to play.
Left-back – Alberto Moreno: Known for his attacking prowess, Moreno’s defensive frailties prompted Klopp to sell him to Villareal in 2019. He was part of the Villareal squad that clinched the 2021 Europa League, scoring in the final against Manchester United.
Central Midfield – Emre Can: Despite inconsistency, Klopp admired Can’s potential. However, the German midfielder chose to run down his contract and secured a move to Juventus in 2018. He later joined Borussia Dortmund and formed a promising midfield partnership with Jude Bellingham.
Central Midfield – Lucas Leiva: Lucas etched himself as a Liverpool cult hero, but he eventually joined Lazio in 2017. After a return to former club Gremio, he retired in March 2023.
Attacking Midfield – Adam Lallana: Lallana spent six seasons with Liverpool, displaying moments of brilliance. Following his departure in 2020, he joined Brighton, where he continued to be a reliable Premier League player.
Left-wing – Philippe Coutinho: Coutinho’s mercurial talent endeared him to Liverpool, but his departure to Barcelona for £142 million was unavoidable. However, his time in Barcelona was underwhelming, and he now fights for a spot at Aston Villa.
Right-wing – James Milner: Milner defied expectations and proved a valuable asset for Liverpool. After 332 appearances, he left the club and joined Brighton, providing experience and versatility to the squad.
Striker – Divock Origi: While not a regular starter, Origi’s goals became legendary, etching his name in Liverpool folklore. In 2022, he signed with AC Milan but has struggled to replicate his Anfield heroics.
The Substitutes: Most of the substitutes, except Joe Allen, didn’t establish long-lasting careers at Liverpool. Allen, back at Swansea, continues to shine, while others like Jordan Ibe, Adam Bogdan, João Carlos Teixeira, Jerome Sinclair, and Kolo Toure have pursued different paths. Kolo Toure, having retired, briefly tried his hand at management.
The transformation at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp is undeniable, with the entire first XI and substitutes now on separate journeys, showcasing the impact and changes Klopp has brought since his arrival.
